IAM union members, retirees, and staff joined women and allies from various labor unions at the 2025 Coalition of Labor Union Women (CLUW) Convention in San Diego, California. The event aimed to enhance women’s roles within the labor movement, local unions, communities, and workplaces.
A significant development for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) delegation was the transition of leadership. Julie Frietchen stepped down as the elected Vice President of CLUW for IAM. Demetress Colbert will succeed her and also assume the role of IAM Women and Young Workers Director starting January 1, 2026.
“I want the IAM to build our presence and activism in CLUW,” said Colbert. “I’m excited to take on this role and recruit more sisters to become active in CLUW, to carry what they learn back to their unions, to build the courage to take on leadership positions, and to lift up fellow women.”
Delegates at the convention elected new vice presidents representing each participating union. Demetress Colbert ran unopposed for IAM’s position with support from IAM International President Brian Bryant. Sylvia J. Ramos from Communications Workers of America (CWA) was chosen as CLUW National President.
Before official proceedings began, attendees took part in pre-convention workshops addressing topics such as workers’ rights for women, international garment workers’ justice campaigns, health improvement strategies, women’s history in labor movements, and organizing basics.
“The workshops were not only interesting and educational, but they also cultivated camaraderie,” said Alana Kirkpatrick, Secretary-Treasurer of IAM Local 850 and Oklahoma State Council President. “In addition to tending to the business of the Convention, passing resolutions and constitutional amendments, we were able to discuss challenges in the workplace specific to women and how we can support ourselves and each other.”
Due to scheduling conflicts with union business obligations, IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes addressed participants through a video message.
“First, let me say how truly sorry I am that I can’t be there with you in person,“ said Cervantes. “There’s nothing like being in a room full of powerful union women, sharing stories, strength, and strategy.”
Cervantes also commended outgoing director Julie Frietchen: “Thank you for your friendship, your fire, and your lifelong dedication to lifting women in this movement,” she told Frietchen. “You make all of us at the IAM so proud.”
During the convention delegates voted on resolutions designed to guide CLUW’s work over the next two years.
“It’s very important for women to come together in a space like this where we can connect with each other, share experiences, and support one another in the challenges we face as working women especially as workers’ and women’s rights are under attack,” Frietchen said. “It’s how we build strength in our workplaces and community in our lives.”
Around 400 delegates representing major unions across North America attended this year’s event.
